Beta defensins are a family of mammalian defensins. The beta defensins are antimicrobial peptides implicated in the resistance of epithelial surfaces to microbial colonization. 4 human Beta-defensins have been identified; BD-1, BD-2, BD-3 and BD-4. Beta-defensins are expressed on some leukocytes and at epithelial surfaces. The beta-defensin proteins are expressed as the C-terminal portion of precursors and are released by proteolytic cleavage of a signal sequence and, in the case of BD-1 (36 a.a.), a propeptide region. Beta-defensins contain a six-cysteine motif that forms three intra-molecular disulfide bonds. Beta-Defensins are 3-5 kDa peptides ranging in size from 33-47 amino acid residues.

The antibody can specifically bind to human BD4, and no cross reactivity was shown with unrelated antigens in ELISA. The specificity for binding to recombinant protein, cellular protein and native antigen is not defined. Cross reactivity with mouse or rat DB4 was not tested.

Store at 4°C if intended for use within one month, otherwise, store at -20°C to -80°C. The lyophilized antibody is stable for at least 18 months after the date of receipt when stored at -20°C to -80°C. After reconstitution, it can be aliquoted and stored frozen at -20°C to -80°C in a manual defrost freezer for at least 6 months without detectable loss of activity. Upon reconstitution, the antibody can also be stored for 1 month at 4°C. Please avoid freeze-thaw cycles, as this will lower the activity of the antibody.